Test+Taking+Strategies

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 * TEST TAKING STRATEGIES**



** SPLASH **

// This test taking strategy is intended for use as a systematic method for taking multiple-choice tests. //


 * __ S __** kim

• Skim the entire test


 * __ P __** lan

• Plan your strategy once you have a general idea of the test


 * __ L __** eave

• Leave out difficult questions in a planned manner


 * __ A __** ttack

• Attack immediately, questions you know


 * __ S __** ystematic

• Systematically guess after exhausting other strategies


 * __ H __** ouse Cleaning

• House cleaning; leave 5% - 10% of your time to fill in all answers, check computer forms, clean up erasures

** P I R A T E S ** This test taking strategy is designed to assist students with preparation, taking, evaluating, and keeping a positive mindset when taking tests.


 * __ P __** repare to succeed

• Put the acronym PIRATES and your name on the test • Prioritize test sections and allot time • Say something positive and start within 2 minutes


 * __ I __** nspect the instruction

• Read all of the instructions and underline how and where to answer • Notice any special requirements


 * __ R __** ead, remember, reduce

• Read the whole question • Remember it with memory strategies • Reduce your alternatives


 * __ A __** nswer or Abandon

• If you know the answer, write it • If you’re not sure, abandon the question for the moment


 * __ T __** urn back

• Go back to abandoned items at the end of the test • Tell yourself to earn more points


 * __ E __** stimate

• Estimate unknown answers using the sub-strategy **A C E**:
 * **A**void absolutes (e.g. “All”)
 * **C**hoose the longest or most detailed alternative
 * **E**liminate identical alternatives


 * __ S __** urvey

• Survey the test to be sure all items are answered • Switch answers only if you are sure they are wrong

** Test Taking Strategies ** // These test-taking strategies are intended to guide students when taking true-false tests or multiple-choice tests. //


 * Taking a True-False Test **

1. Read the item several times.

2. Watch for words such as always, never, all, every, often, only, and usually.

3. Choose true or false.

4. If you can’t answer a question, put a mark next to it and come back to it later.

5. Check your test. Change an answer only for a very good reason. Usually your first answer is best.


 * Taking a Multiple Choice Test **

1. Read the item carefully.

2. Read the choices. Watch for all of the above and none of the above.

3. Cross out the choices that are obviously wrong.

4. Look at the remaining choices and pick the best answer.

5. If you can’t answer a question, put a mark next to it and come back to it later.

6. Check your test. Change an answer only for a very good reason. Usually your first answer is best

PIRATES a test-taking strategy